Multi-featured panel fastener and panel system including the multi-featured panel fastener

ABSTRACT

A panel fastener is provided that has a head having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; an engagement feature on the first surface of the head, the engagement feature being configured to be engaged by a driving tool; a shank extending from the second surface of the head; a threaded portion extending from the shank, the threaded portion having first and second helical threads arranged in an intertwined manner; the first thread extending farther radially from the central axis than does the second thread; and the shank being located between the head and the threaded portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. Non-Provisionalapplication Ser. No. 16/123,127, filed on Sep. 6, 2018, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/554,780, filed on Sep. 6,2017. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD

The present invention relates to building panel systems. Particularembodiments of the invention relate to a fastener for attaching panelsto a framework to form a ceiling, wall, or other barrier. Otherembodiments of the invention relate to a building panel system using theinventive fastener.

BACKGROUND

Many types of ceiling systems and methods for mounting ceiling panelshave been used. Several types of system use a suspended metal supportgrid or other structure to which panels are fastened. The panels can bemany different compositions. Some panels are made from a fibrous orother material that can be easily compressed and permanently deforms.Many acoustical ceiling and wall panels are made of such a material.

A problem exists in that is can be difficult to securely fasten aneasily compressed ceiling or wall panel to a supporting structurewithout deforming the panel. For example, a conventional screw caneasily be driven too far into such a panel resulting in permanentdeformation of the panel and, in some cases, insufficient holding powerthat can ultimately result in the panel not being securely fastened tothe structure due to the head of the screw being pulled through thepanel. Also, it can also be very difficult to drive conventional screwsto a uniform depth so that the heads are all at the same elevationrelative to an outward face of the panel.

Accordingly, improved systems and methods for fastening a ceiling orwall panel to a supporting structure are provided by the invention.These systems and methods provide a fastener that is easily driven to auniform depth relative to the outward face of the panel withoutdeforming the panel.

SUMMARY

A panel fastener according to the present disclosure is part of abuilding system such as a ceiling or wall. In particular embodiments,the fastener is provided with a large washer-type head and a centralshank that controls the depth to which the fastener can be driven. Thesefeatures in conjunction with high-low threads provide a unique fastenerthat easily and quickly secures an easily compressed building panel to astructure without damaging the panel.

In one aspect, a panel fastener extends along a central axis andincludes a head having a first surface and a second surface opposite thefirst surface; an engagement feature on the first surface of the head,the engagement feature being configured to be engaged by a driving tool;a shank extending from the second surface of the head; a threadedportion extending from the shank, the threaded portion having first andsecond helical threads arranged in an intertwined manner; the firstthread extending farther radially from the central axis than does thesecond thread; and the central shank being located between the head andthe threaded portion.

In another aspect, the shank is a cylinder having a shank diameter, theshank diameter being constant over the entire length of the shank.

In another aspect, the shank diameter is larger than an outer diameterof the first thread.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank diameter to the outer diameterof the first thread is in a range of 1:1 to 2:1.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank diameter to the outer diameterof the first thread is in a range of 1.11:1 to 1.83:1.

In another aspect, the shank has a first end that is adjacent to thethreaded portion, and the first end of the shank is flat and extends ina plane that is perpendicular to the central axis.

In another aspect, the second side of the head is flat and extends in aplane that is perpendicular to the central axis.

In another aspect, the first side of the head is flat and extends in aplane that is perpendicular to the central axis.

In another aspect, the head has a thickness in a direction parallel tothe central axis, the head has a diameter, and a ratio of the thicknessof the head to the diameter of the head is in a range of 1:20 to 1:5.

In another aspect, the ratio of the thickness of the head to thediameter of the head is in a range of 1:13 to 1:8.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank diameter to the diameter of thehead is in a range of 1:10 to 1:2.

In another aspect, the ratio of the shank diameter to the diameter ofthe head is in a range of 1:5 to 1:3.

In another aspect, the shank has a shank length, the threaded portionhas a threaded portion length, and the threaded portion length is lessthan the shank length.

In another aspect, the threaded portion is self-tapping.

In another aspect, an end surface of the shank forms an annular shoulderat a proximal end of the threaded portion, and the first and secondhelical threads of the threaded portion extend from the end surface ofthe shank

In another aspect, a panel fastener includes a head having a firstsurface and a second surface opposite the first surface; an engagementfeature on the first surface of the head, the engagement featureconfigured to be engaged by a driving tool; a shank extending from afirst end to a second end; a threaded portion extending from a first endto a second end, the threaded portion comprising a central shaft thatextends along a longitudinal axis, and one or more helical threadsextending radially from the central shaft; the second surface of thehead forming a first annular shoulder at the second end of the shank andthe first end of the shank having an end surface that forms a secondannular shoulder at the second end of the threaded portion; and whereinthe shank has a substantially constant transverse cross-section for asubstantially entire length from the end surface of the shank to thefirst annular shoulder.

In another aspect, the one or more helical threads of the threadedportion extend from the end surface of the shank.

In another aspect, the shank has a smooth outer surface that is free oftexture and protuberances.

In another aspect, each of the second surface of the head and the endsurface of the shank is orthogonal to the central axis.

In another aspect, the shank has a shank length measured from the firstend of the shank to the second end of the shank; the threaded portionhas a threaded portion length measured from the first end of thethreaded portion to the second end of the threaded portion; and whereinthe shank length is greater than the threaded portion length.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank length to the threaded portionlength is in a range of 1.25:1 to 2:1.

In another aspect, the one or more threads of the threaded portion havea maximum outer diameter and the shank has a shank diameter, the shankdiameter being greater than the maximum outer diameter of the one ormore threads of the threaded portion.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank diameter to the maximum outerdiameter of the one or more threads is in a range of 1:1 to 2:1.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank diameter to the maximum outerdiameter of the one or more threads is in a range of 1.11:1 to 1.83:1.

In another aspect, the threaded portion has first and second helicalthreads arranged in an intertwined manner; and the first thread extendsfarther radially from the central axis than does the second thread.

In another aspect, an end surface of the shank forms an annular shoulderat a proximal end of the threaded portion, and the one or more helicalthreads of the threaded portion extend from the end surface of theshank.

In another aspect, a panel fastener extending along a central axisincludes a head having a first surface and a second surface opposite thefirst surface; an engagement feature on the first surface of the head,the engagement feature configured to be engaged by a driving tool; ashank extending from the second surface of the head to an end surface; athreaded portion extending from the end surface of the shank, thethreaded portion comprising a central shaft and one or more helicalthreads extending radially from the central shaft; and the end surfaceof the shank forming an annular shoulder at a proximal end of thethreaded portion, the one or more threads, the one or more helicalthreads of the threaded portion extending from the end surface of theshank.

In another aspect, the threaded portion has first and second helicalthreads arranged in an intertwined manner; and the first thread extendsfarther radially from the central axis than does the second thread.

In another aspect, the shank is a cylinder having a shank diameter, theshank diameter being constant over the entire length of the shank.

In another aspect, a building panel system includes a building panelhaving a thickness; a panel fastener extending along a central axis, thepanel fastener includes a head having a first surface and a secondsurface opposite the first surface; an engagement feature on the firstsurface of the head, the engagement feature configured to be engaged bya driving tool; a shank extending from the second surface of the head toan end surface; a threaded portion extending from the end surface of theshank, the threaded portion comprising a central shaft and one or morehelical threads extending radially from the central shaft; and the shankhaving a shank length measured from the second surface of the head tothe end surface; the shank length being less than or equal to thethickness of the building panel; and the panel fastener secures thebuilding panel to a structure.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank length to the thickness of thebuilding panel is in a range of 0.9:1 to 1:1.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank length to the thickness of thebuilding panel is in a range of 0.95:1 to 1:1.

In another aspect, the shank is a cylinder having a shank diameter, theshank diameter being constant over the entire length of the shank.

In another aspect, the threaded portion has first and second helicalthreads arranged in an intertwined manner; and the first thread extendsfarther radially from the central axis than does the second thread.

In another aspect, an end surface of the shank forms an annular shoulderat a proximal end of the threaded portion, and the one or more helicalthreads of the threaded portion extend from the end surface of theshank.

In another aspect, a building panel system includes a building panelhaving a thickness; a plurality of the panel fastener according to thisdisclosure; and the plurality of panel fasteners secure the buildingpanel to a structure.

In another aspect, the building panel system includes the structure towhich the panel fastener attaches the building panel.

In another aspect, the structure is a furring strip.

In another aspect, the shank length is less than or equal to thethickness of the panel.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank length to the thickness of thepanel is in a range of 0.9:1 to 1:1.

In another aspect, a ratio of the shank length to the thickness of thepanel is in a range of 0.95:1 to 1:1.

In another aspect, the shank length is equal to the thickness of thepanel.

In another aspect, in an assembled state, the shank extends through theentire thickness of the building panel, the head is located on a firstside of the building panel, the threaded portion is located on a secondside of the building panel, the threaded portion is located outside ofthe building panel, and the threaded portion penetrates the structure.

In another aspect, the building panel is made of a fibrous material.

In another aspect, the building panel system is a ceiling system and thebuilding panel is a ceiling panel.

In another aspect, the building panel system is a wall system and thebuilding panel is a wall panel.

Further areas of applicability of the present invention will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples, whileindicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are intended forpurposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope ofthe invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from thedetailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of ceiling system in accordance withexemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view of a multi-featured panel fastenerin accordance with exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a lower perspective view of the multi-featured panel fastenershown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the multi-featured panel fastener shown inFIGS. 2 and 3;

FIG. 4A is a side view of the multi-featured panel fastener according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the multi-featured panel fastener shown in FIGS.2-4;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the multi-featured panel fastener shown inFIGS. 2-5;

FIG. 7 is a side view of a multi-featured panel fastener in accordancewith exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a side view of a multi-featured panel fastener in accordancewith exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a top view of the multi-featured panel fasteners shown inFIGS. 7 and 8;

FIG. 10 is a partial sectional view of a panel attached to a structureby a multi-featured panel fastener in accordance with exemplaryembodiments of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a partial sectional view of a panel attached to a structureby a multi-featured panel fastener in accordance with exemplaryembodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 12 is a partial sectional view of two panels attached to astructure by a multi-featured panel fastener in accordance withexemplary embodiments of the invention.

All drawings are schematic and not necessarily to scale. Parts given areference numerical designation in one figure may be considered to bethe same parts where they appear in other figures without a numericaldesignation for brevity unless specifically labeled with a differentpart number and described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merelyexemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention,its application, or uses.

In the description of embodiments disclosed herein, any reference todirection or orientation is merely intended for convenience ofdescription and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of thepresent invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,”“horizontal,” “vertical,”, “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and“bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g., “horizontally,”“downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to theorientation as then described or as shown in the drawing underdiscussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description onlyand do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in aparticular orientation. Terms such as “attached,” “connected,”“coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship whereinstructures are secured or attached to one another either directly orindirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable orrigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly describedotherwise. The term “fixed” refers to two structures that cannot beseparated without damaging one of the structures. The term “filled”refers to a state that includes completely filled or partially filled.

As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each andevery value that is within the range. Any value within the range can beselected as the terminus of the range. In addition, all references citedherein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. In theevent of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and thatof a cited reference, the present disclosure controls.

An example of a ceiling system 10 in accordance with embodiments of theinvention is shown in FIG. 1. Although a ceiling system is shown in FIG.1, it is noted that the invention and the following description alsoapply to a wall system or any other system using panels. As such, thefollowing embodiments and descriptions may refer to just a ceilingsystem or a wall system, but it is understood that these embodiments anddescriptions apply to all building panel systems.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, ceiling system 10 includes aplurality of ceiling panels 500 that are secured to a corrugated metaldeck 600 by a plurality of fasteners 100. In some embodiments panels 500are attached directly to metal deck 600, and in other embodiments panels500 are attached to a furring strip (discussed below) which are in turnattached to metal deck 600. Although metal deck 600 with furring stripsis the structure used in this example, it is noted that panels 500 canbe attached to other structures as well. Non-exclusive examples ofstructures to which panels 500 can be attached include beams, rafters,or joists made of wood, metal, composites, or any other material intowhich a screw can be driven. The locations of fasteners 100 shown inFIG. 1 are examples only and are not limiting. In some examples,fasteners 100 are located between 4 and 6 inches from the edges ofpanels 500.

Ceiling panels 500 can be, for non-exclusive example, a fibrous or otheracoustical panel, a fabric covered panel, or any other compressiblepanel.

Ceiling panels 500 may comprise a body having an upper surface oppositea lower surface and a body side surface that extends between the uppersurface and the lower surface, thereby defining a perimeter of the body.The body may have a body thickness that extends from the upper surfaceto the lower surface. The body thickness may range from about 12 mm toabout 40 mm—including all values and sub-ranges there-between.

The body of ceiling panel 500 may be porous, thereby allowing airflowthrough the body between the upper surface and the lower surface. Thebody may be comprised of a binder and fibers. Non-limiting examples ofbinder may include a starch-based polymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), alatex, polysaccharide polymers, cellulosic polymers, protein solutionpolymers, an acrylic polymer, polymaleic anhydride, epoxy resins, or acombination of two or more thereof. The fibers may be organic fibers,inorganic fibers, or a blend thereof. Non-limiting examples of inorganicfibers mineral wool (also referred to as slag wool), rock wool, stonewool, and glass fibers. Non-limiting examples of organic fiber includefiberglass, cellulosic fibers (e.g. paper fiber—such as newspaper, hempfiber, jute fiber, flax fiber, wood fiber, or other natural fibers),polymer fibers (including polyester, polyethylene, aramid—i.e., aromaticpolyamide, and/or polypropylene), protein fibers (e.g., sheep wool), andcombinations thereof. Depending on the specific type of material, thefibers may either be hydrophilic (e.g., cellulosic fibers) orhydrophobic (e.g. fiberglass, mineral wool, rock wool, stone wool). Thefibers may be present in an amount ranging from about 5 wt. % to about99 wt. % based on the total dry weight of the body—including all valuesand sub-ranges there-between. In some embodiments, the body may furthercomprise a filler and/or additive. Non-limiting examples of filler mayinclude powders of calcium carbonate, including limestone, titaniumdioxide, sand, barium sulfate, clay, mica, dolomite, silica, talc,perlite, polymers, gypsum, wollastonite, expanded-perlite, calcite,aluminum trihydrate, pigments, zinc oxide, or zinc sulfate. The fillermay be present in an amount ranging from about 25 wt. % to about 99 wt.% based on the total dry weight of the body 120—including all values andsub-ranges there-between. The body may be treated with a hydrophobiccomponent thereby rending the body stain-repellant.

FIGS. 2-6 show an exemplary fastener 100 in accordance with embodimentsof the invention. Fastener 100 has a head 200 and a threaded portion 400that are connected by a centrally positioned shank 300. The shank 300extends along a longitudinal axis that intersects the head 200 and thethreaded portion 400.

Head 200 is, in this example, a flat washer-like element that issignificantly larger in diameter than it is thick. Head 200 has a largeflat upper surface 210 or radius R1 and a similar lower surface 220.Other shapes can be used for upper surface 210 and lower surface 220such as, for non-exclusive example, concave surfaces, convex surfaces,partial concave surfaces, and partial convex surfaces. In addition,upper surface 210 and lower surface 220 can be parallel or non-parallelwhether the surfaces are planar or non-planer. In this example, uppersurface 210 and lower surface 220 are planar and parallel and a flatvertical edge 230 of thickness T1 connects upper surface 210 and lowersurface 220. The flat washer-like shape that is significantly larger indiameter than it is thick provides a large bearing surface on its lowerside (lower surface 220) that distributes force over a much larger areathan does a conventional screw. As a result, a lower pressure is exertedon the ceiling panel by fastener 100, which is especially advantageouswhen the ceiling panel is easily compressible and therefore easilydamaged by deformation.

In particular embodiments, the ratio of the thickness T1 of head 200 tothe diameter 2R1 of head 200 is in a range of 1:20 to 1:5—including allratios and sub-ranges there-between. In particular embodiments, theratio of the thickness T1 of head 200 to the diameter 2R1 of head 200 isin a range of 1:14 to 1:9—including all ratios and sub-rangesthere-between. In particular embodiments, the ratio of the thickness T1of head 200 to the diameter 2R1 of head 200 is in a range of 1:9 to1:11—including all ratios and sub-ranges there-between. A smallerthickness T1 relative to the diameter of head 200 can result in a lessobtrusive and visible fastener 100 in the installed state.

The diameter 2R1 of the head may range from about 0.5 to about 1.0inch—including all diameters and sub-ranges there-between. In someembodiments, the diameter 2R1 of the head may range from about 0.5 toabout 0.7 inch—including all diameters and sub-ranges there-between. Insome embodiments, the diameter 2R1 of the head may range from about 0.55to about 0.65 inch—including all diameters and sub-ranges there-between.

The thickness T1 of the head may range from about 0.05 to about 0.1inch—including all diameters and sub-ranges there-between. In someembodiments, the diameter 2R1 of the head may range from about 0.055 toabout 0.09 inch—including all diameters and sub-ranges there-between. Insome embodiments, the thickness T1 of the head may range from about0.055 to about 0.065 inch—including all thicknesses and sub-rangesthere-between. In other embodiments, the Examples of the invention havea head having a diameter 2R1 of about 0.55 inch to about 0.65 inch and athickness ranging from about 0.055 to about 0.065 inch—including alldiameters and thickness there-between, as well as all sub-rangesthere-between.

In particular embodiments, the ratio of the diameter of shank 300 to thediameter of head 200 is in a range of 1:10 to 1:3. In particularembodiments, the ratio of the diameter of shank 300 to the diameter ofhead 200 is in a range of 1:5 to 1:3—including all ratios and sub-rangesthere-between. In particular embodiments, the ratio of the diameter ofshank 300 to the diameter of head 200 is in a range of 1:4 to1:3—including all ratios and sub-ranges there-between.

Examples of the invention have a shank having a diameter 2R2 of between0.1 and 0.3 inch and a length L of between 0.6 and 0.8 inch—includingall diameters and lengths, as well as sub-ranges there-between. In someembodiments, the shank may have a diameter 2R2 of between 0.15 and 0.25inch and a length of between about 0.65 and about 0.72 inch—includingall diameters and lengths, as well as sub-ranges there-between. In someembodiments, the shank may have a diameter of between about 0.175 andabout 0.185 inch and a length of between about 0.67 and about 0.69inch—including all lengths and diameters and sub-ranges there-between.

The ratio of the diameter of shank 300 to the length L of the shank 300may be in a range of 1:2 to 1:5—including all ratios and sub-rangesthere-between. In particular embodiments, the ratio of the diameter ofshank 300 to the length L of the shank 300 is in a range of 1:2 to1:4—including all ratios and sub-ranges there-between. In particularembodiments, the ratio of the diameter of shank 300 to the length L ofthe shank 300 is in a range of 1:3 to 1:4—including all ratios andsub-ranges there-between.

In the example shown in FIGS. 2-6, head 200 includes a driving feature240 that provides an interface between fastener 100 and a driving tool.In this example driving feature 240 is configured to accommodate aphillips-head screwdriver. However, driving feature 240 can be shaped toaccommodate any appropriate driving tool such as, for non-exclusiveexample, a flat-head screwdriver, a torx bit, or an allen wrench.Because head 200 and driving feature 240 can be visible in the finishedceiling system, it is desirable to make driving feature 240 as small andinconspicuous as possible while still providing sufficient engagementwith the appropriate driving tool.

Shank 300 extends from lower surface 220 of head 200, as shown in FIGS.2-4 and is, in this example, a smooth, non-threaded cylinder having asurface 310. Shank 300 has a length L that is related to the thicknessof the ceiling panels that are to be held in place by fastener 100.Examples of thicknesses of panels 500 are ½″, ¾″, and 1″. However, anypanel thickness can be accommodated by sizing shank length Lappropriately. At the end of shank 300 that is opposite head 200, anabutting surface 320 is provided. Abutting surface 320 extends radiallyfrom threaded portion 400 as shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 6. In this example,abutting surface 320 is a planar round surface of radius R2 that isperpendicular to a central axis of fastener 100. Abutting surface 320provides a stop (explained further below) that limits how far threadedportion 400 can advance into the structure to which fastener 100 isconnected.

In particular embodiments, length L of shank 300 is equal to thethickness of the ceiling panels. This configuration allows lower surface220 of head 200 to contact the outer surface of the panel and exertforce of the outer surface of the panel without allowing head 200 topress into the outer surface of the panel. If the thickness of the paneland the length L of shank 300 are very precise, then this configurationcan provide secure fastening without damaging the panel. However, if thethickness of some or all of the panels in a system is just slightly lessthan length L of shank 300, then those panels can possibly move relativeto fastener 100 and the structure. Such movement can be detrimental inthat it can cause damage to the panel over time and can generate noiseas the panel loses and regains contact with head 200 and/or thestructure. In addition, such movement can be visible from the occupiedspace below the ceiling system. Changes in airflow and other factors cancause such movement.

In particular embodiments, length L of shank 300 is slightly less thanthe thickness of the ceiling panels. This configuration assures thatlower surface 220 of head 200 will contact the outer surface of thepanel and exert force of the outer surface of the panel when abuttingsurface 320 is in contact with the structure. This provides a secureattachment that prevents movement of the panel relative to thestructure. However, this configuration can result in head 200 pressingslightly into the outer surface of the panel. The strength of the panelmaterial and the difference in length L and the thickness of the panelwill dictate the extent (if any) to which lower surface 220 of head 200deforms the outer surface of the panel when abutting surface 320 is incontact with the structure. For example, length L can be 1/32″ less,1/16″ less, or any amount less than the thickness of the ceiling panels.The height of the ceiling system above the occupants of the occupiedspace, lighting, and other factors should be considered when determiningthe acceptable amount of deformation.

In particular embodiments, the ratio of the shank length to thethickness of the panel is between 0.9:1 and 1:1. In particularembodiments, the ratio of the shank length to the thickness of the panelis between 0.95:1 and 1:1. Examples of the invention have a shank lengthof between 0.678 and 0.698 inches for use with a panel having a nominalthickness of 0.75 inches.

In particular embodiments where length L of shank 300 is less than thethickness of the panel, thickness T1 of head 200 can have a relationshipto the difference of the thickness of the panel, TP, and length L ofshank 300 that results in upper surface 210 of head 200 being locatedslightly above an upper surface of the panel while lower surface 220 ofhead 200 is located slightly below the upper surface of the panel. Insome embodiments, the ratio of T1 to TP−L can be between slightlygreater than 1:1 to 3:1. In other embodiments, the ratio of T1 to TP−Lcan be between slightly greater than 1:1 to 2:1. The lower end of thisrange of ratios is slightly greater than 1:1 in order for upper surface210 of head 200 to be located slightly above the upper surface of thepanel.

In other embodiments, the ratio of T1 to TP−L is 1:1 (in other words,TI+L=TP), which results in upper surface 210 of head 200 being parallelto the upper surface of the panel. In other embodiments, the ratio of T1to TP−L is less than 1:1 (in other words, TI+L<TP), which results inupper surface 210 of head 200 being below the upper surface of thepanel.

A larger difference between the shank diameter and the head diametercreates a large lower surface 220 of head 200 and, therefore, providesmore bearing surface to help prevent deformation and/or breaking of thepanel surface.

Threaded portion 400 extends from abutting surface 320 as shown, forexample, in FIGS. 2-4 and 6-8. In FIGS. 2-4 and 6, the threaded portion400 has two separate helical threads 420, 430 that extend from a centralportion 410 in a double helix formation. In the example shown, threads420, 430 form high-low threads in that thread 420 is a high thread andthread 430 is a low thread. High thread 420 has a thread radius R4 thatis larger than thread radius R3 of low thread 430 (see FIG. 4). In otherexamples, the two separate helical threads have the same thread radiusand are, therefore, the same height.

As shown in FIGS. 4A, 7, and 8, the threaded portion 400 may comprisethread 420 that is a single thread. The single thread may extend outwardradially from the central axis. In some embodiments, the single thread420 may have a thread radius that is equal to the high thread radius R4of the previous embodiment. According to this embodiment, the singlethread 420 may be uniform extending from the abutting surface 320 alongthe threaded portion 400 until reaching the pointed section 440.

In other embodiments, the single thread of FIGS. 7 and 8 may have athread radius that is reduced in size with distance from the abuttingsurface 320 of the shank 300. The thread radius of this embodiment maybe equal to the low thread radius R3 of the previous embodiment.

Central portion 410 ends, in this example, in a pointed section 440.Pointed section 440 can be a self-tapping shape that, when driven by,for example, a power screw gun, cuts a hole in the structure to whichfastener 100 is fastened. The pointed section 440 may have a generallysymmetric conical shape that terminates at apex (also referred to as aconical tip). The apex of the conical tip intersects the longitudinalaxis, and a conical wall of the conical tip of the pointed section 440may be oriented relative to the longitudinal axis at a tip angle rangingfrom about 20° to about 60°—including all tip angles and sub-rangesthere-between. In some embodiments, the tip angle may range from about20° to about 30°—including all angles and sub-ranges there-between. Insome embodiments, the tip angle may range from about 24° to about28°—including all angles and sub-ranges there-between, preferably about26°.

Referring now to FIG. 4A, although not shown, the single thread 420 mayextend entirely along the threaded section 400 such that it continuesalong the pointed section 440 and tapers along a wall of the conical tipof the pointed section 440 until it reaches the apex of the conical tip.In such embodiment, the screw may be a self-piercing screw, whereby thesingle thread 420 that extends to along the conical wall to the apex ofconical tip tapers at the tip angle.

According to the embodiments where the threaded portion 400 has twoseparate helical threads comprising two lead threads (one on eachthread), the fastener may facilitate starting of fastener 100 inmultiple types of materials. In addition, the existence of low thread430 creates a larger gap between high threads 420 at or near threadradius R4, which can result in increased holding force in certainmaterials as compared to a single thread having a pitch equal to twicethe thread pitch of high thread 420. This configuration is beneficialbecause low thread 430 provides added holding force in other materials,such as sheet metal, when compared to a single thread having a pitchequal to twice the thread pitch of high thread 420.

In particular embodiments, the ratio of the shank diameter to thediameter of the high thread 420 is in a range of 1:1 to 2:1. Inparticular embodiments, the ratio of the shank diameter to the diameterof the high thread 420 is in a range of 1:11 to 1.83:1. The ratio ofshank diameter 2R2 to thread diameter 2R4 of the high thread 420 canvary depending on the material of the structure and the panel material.A stronger structure material can require a smaller thread diameter 2R4.A more easily crushed panel material can benefit from a smaller shankdiameter 2R2. Examples of the invention have a shank diameter of between0.2 and 0.33 inch and a maximum high thread diameter of 0.18 inch.

FIGS. 7-9 show other examples of embodiments of fastener 100. In theexamples shown in FIGS. 7-9, head 200 can include a chamfer or radius202 between upper surface 210 and vertical edge 230, and a chamfer orradius 204 between lower surface 220 and vertical edge 230. Otherexamples of fastener 100 can include one or both of thesechamfers/radiuses.

The examples shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 include a chamfer or radius 302between lower surface 220 of head 200 and shank 300, and a chamfer orradius 304 at the end of shank 300 adjacent to threaded portion 400.Other examples of fastener 100 can include one or both of thesechamfers/radiuses.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, shank 300 has a substantiallyconstant transverse cross-section for the substantially entire lengthfrom abutting surface 320 of shank 300 to lower surface 220 of head 200.

The examples shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 show two separate helical threads420, 430 that extend from central portion 410 of threaded portion 400 ina double helix formation. In these examples, helical threads 420, 430have the same thread radius. However, in other examples, thread 420 andthread 430 have different thread radii. The example shown in FIG. 8 issimilar to that shown in FIG. 7, except that threads 420 and 430 in FIG.8 extend to the end of pointed section 440 of threaded portion 400. Thehardness and other qualities of the structure into which fastener 100will be driven will be considered in determining which whether threads420 and 430 extend to the end of pointed section 440 or not.

FIG. 10 shows an example of fastener 100 attaching panel 500 directly toa corrugated metal deck 600. In this example, corrugated metal deck 600has an undulating profile created by high section 620, transitionsections 630 and low sections 610. An upper surface of panel 500 ispressed against a lower surface 640 of low section 610 by threadedportion 400 engaging low section 610. FIG. 10 shows how abutting surface320 of shank 300 contacts the structure (in this case, lower surface640) and prevents head 200 of fastener 100 from being drawn farther intopanel 500. If additional driving force is applied to fastener 100 in thecondition shown in FIG. 10, abutting surface 320 will stop fastener 100from progressing any further because abutting surface 320 is in contactwith lower surface 640 of corrugated metal deck 600.

FIG. 11 shows an example of fastener 100 attaching panel 500 directly toa furring strip 700. Although furring strip 700 is shown in this exampleas the structure, other wood or similar structures can also be used.FIG. 11 shows how abutting surface 320 of shank 300 contacts thestructure (in this case, lower surface 740 of furring strip 700) andprevents head 200 of fastener 100 from being drawn farther into panel500. If additional driving force is applied to fastener 100 in thecondition shown in FIG. 11, abutting surface 320 will stop fastener 100from progressing any further because abutting surface 320 is in contactwith lower surface 740 of furring strip 700.

Fastener 100 can be coated or uncoated. Non-exclusive examples ofcoatings include powder coating (or other baked-on coatings), zinccoating, or wet paint. The entire fastener can be coated or just aportion such as, for example, just upper surface 210 or just uppersurface 210 and vertical edge 230.

FIG. 12 shows an example of fasteners 100 attaching two panels 500 tofurring strip 700 which is, in turn, attached to corrugated metal deck600. This is the condition shown at section line IX-IX on FIG. 1. Twoadjacent panels 500 abut each other and are held in place by fasteners100. The function of abutting surface 320 in this example is the same asdescribed with regard to FIG. 11. Furring strip 700 can be a narrowpiece of wood or other material that is attached to corrugated metaldeck 600 (or other structure) in order to provide a uniform surface towhich panels 500 can be attached. Furring strip 700 can be particularlyuseful if the underlying structure is concrete or some other materialthat does not accept threaded fasteners well. In the example of FIGS. 1and 12, furring strips 700 can be hidden from the view of the occupantsof the occupied space by panels 500. This can create the appearance ofpanels 500 floating below corrugated metal deck 600. Fasteners 100provide an esthetically pleasing, yet structurally sound, attachmentsolution that avoids deformation of panels 500.

While the foregoing description and drawings represent exemplaryembodiments of the present disclosure, it will be understood thatvarious additions, modifications and substitutions may be made thereinwithout departing from the spirit and scope and range of equivalents ofthe accompanying claims. In particular, it will be clear to thoseskilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in otherforms, structures, arrangements, proportions, sizes, and with otherelements, materials, and components, without departing from the spiritor essential characteristics thereof. In addition, numerous variationsin the methods/processes described herein may be made within the scopeof the present disclosure. One skilled in the art will furtherappreciate that the embodiments may be used with many modifications ofstructure, arrangement, proportions, sizes, materials, and componentsand otherwise, used in the practice of the disclosure, which areparticularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirementswithout departing from the principles described herein. The presentlydisclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects asillustrative and not restrictive. The appended claims should beconstrued broadly, to include other variants and embodiments of thedisclosure, which may be made by those skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the scope and range of equivalents. In addition, allcombinations of any and all of the features described in the disclosure,in any combination, are part of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A panel fastener extending along a central axis,the panel fastener comprising: a head having a first surface and asecond surface opposite the first surface; an engagement feature on thefirst surface of the head, the engagement feature being configured to beengaged by a driving tool; a shank extending from the second surface ofthe head; a threaded portion extending from the shank; and the shankbeing located between the head and the threaded portion.
 2. The panelfastener of claim 1, wherein the shank is a cylinder having a shankdiameter, the shank diameter being constant over the entire length ofthe shank.
 3. The panel fastener of claim 1, wherein the shank diameteris larger than an outer diameter of the thread.
 4. The panel fastener ofclaim 1, wherein a ratio of the shank diameter to the outer diameter ofthe thread is in a range of 1:1 to 2:1.
 5. The panel fastener of claim1, wherein the shank has a first end that is adjacent to the threadedportion, and the first end of the shank is flat and extends in a planethat is perpendicular to the central axis.
 6. The panel fastener ofclaim 1, wherein the second side of the head is flat and extends in aplane that is perpendicular to the central axis.
 7. The panel fastenerof claim 1, wherein the first side of the head is flat and extends in aplane that is perpendicular to the central axis.
 8. The panel fastenerof claim 1, wherein the head has a thickness in a direction parallel tothe central axis, the head has a diameter, and a ratio of the thicknessof the head to the diameter of the head is in a range of 1:20 to 1:5. 9.The panel fastener of claim 1, wherein a ratio of the shank diameter tothe diameter of the head is in a range of 1:8 to 1:2.
 10. The panelfastener of claim 1, wherein the shank has a shank length, the threadedportion has a threaded portion length, and the threaded portion lengthis less than the shank length.
 11. The panel fastener of claim 1,wherein an end surface of the shank forms an annular shoulder at aproximal end of the threaded portion, and the thread of the threadedportion extend from the end surface of the shank.
 12. A panel fastenerextending along a central axis, the panel fastener comprising: a headhaving a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface;an engagement feature on the first surface of the head, the engagementfeature configured to be engaged by a driving tool; a shank extendingfrom a first end to a second end; a threaded portion extending from afirst end to a second end, the threaded portion comprising a centralshaft and one or more helical threads extending radially from thecentral shaft; the second surface of the head forming a first annularshoulder at the second end of the shank and the first end of the shankhaving an end surface that forms a second annular shoulder at the secondend of the threaded portion; and wherein the shank has a substantiallyconstant transverse cross-section for a substantially entire length fromthe end surface of the shank to the first annular shoulder.
 13. Thepanel fastener of claim 12, wherein the one or more helical threads ofthe threaded portion extend from the end surface of the shank.
 14. Thepanel fastener of claim 12, wherein the shank has a smooth outer surfacethat is free of texture and protuberances.
 15. The panel fastener ofclaim 12, wherein each of the second surface of the head and the endsurface of the shank is orthogonal to the central axis.
 16. The panelfastener of claim 12, further comprising: the shank having a shanklength measured from the first end of the shank to the second end of theshank; the threaded portion having a threaded portion length measuredfrom the first end of the threaded portion to the second end of thethreaded portion; and wherein the shank length is greater than thethreaded portion length.
 17. The panel fastener of claim 12, wherein oneor more threads of the threaded portion have a maximum outer diameterand the shank has a shank diameter, the shank diameter being greaterthan the maximum outer diameter of the one or more threads of thethreaded portion.
 18. The panel fastener of claim 12, wherein an endsurface of the shank forms an annular shoulder at a proximal end of thethreaded portion, and the one or more helical threads of the threadedportion extend from the end surface of the shank.
 19. A panel fastenerextending along a central axis, the panel fastener comprising: a headhaving a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface;an engagement feature on the first surface of the head, the engagementfeature configured to be engaged by a driving tool; a shank extendingfrom the second surface of the head to an end surface; a threadedportion extending from the end surface of the shank, the threadedportion comprising a central shaft and one or more helical threadsextending radially from the central shaft; and the end surface of theshank forming an annular shoulder at a proximal end of the threadedportion, the one or more helical threads of the threaded portionextending from the end surface of the shank.
 20. The panel fastener ofclaim 19, wherein the shank is a cylinder having a shank diameter, theshank diameter being constant over the entire length of the shank.